Solwaybank Wind Farm spins into action

RES injects £4.1 million into local economy as 30MW wind farm starts operations

RES, one of the world’s leading renewable energy companies, has paid tribute to Dumfries and Galloway companies who helped a 15-turbine TRIG-owned wind farm near Langholm spin into action.

The 30MW wind farm, which invested £4.1 million into the local economy during construction, is now set to give more back to the community during its operation. This includes a Local Electricity Discount Scheme (LEDS) that will help lower energy bills in the area and a tailored Habitat Management Plan which aims to increase biodiversity around the wind farm. Community groups, meanwhile, will have around £60,000 per year to spend as they see fit, which will total £1.5 million over the life of the project.

With several local companies involved in the build, including Grange Quarry, Pro-Tect and Oakbank, RES, who move from overseeing the construction of the site to day to day operational duties, say the project is a tremendous success story.

Alan McMahon, Construction Director at RES said: “When building a new wind farm, it is important for us to bring as much value from the project to the local community as we can.

“Local contractors have a breadth and depth of knowledge about the local area and resources that is invaluable, and the companies we have worked with are testament to the success of the construction process of Solwaybank.

“We’re committed to further supporting the Solwaybank community through LEDS and the Community Benefit Fund, and look forward to seeing what good work the benefit fund will support.”

Up to £90,000 per annum will go towards discounted energy bills for households, business buildings and community properties including schools, village halls and places of worship closest to the wind farm, via LEDS. The Community Benefit Fund will provide £60,000 per year for the community to spend as they see fit, and can be used to support short, medium and long-term goals in the local area.  

The wind farm, owned by TRIG, a leading renewable energy infrastructure investment company, has the potential to power 19,000 homes with clean, green electricity. Working alongside Low Carbon Contracts Company (LCCC), TRIG recently announced that Solwaybank was one of the latest projects in the Contracts for Difference (CfD) portfolio to come online.

For further information about RES, visit www.res-group.com

ENDS

About RES:

RES is the world’s largest independent renewable energy company active in onshore and offshore wind, solar, energy storage and transmission and distribution. At the forefront of the industry for over 39 years, RES has delivered more than 19 GW of renewable energy projects across the globe and supports an operational asset portfolio exceeding 7 GW worldwide for a large client base.  Understanding the unique needs of corporate clients, RES has secured 1.5GW of power purchase agreements (PPAs) enabling access to energy at the lowest cost. RES employs more than 3,000 people and is active in 10 countries.

About TRIG:

The Renewables Infrastructure Group (“TRIG”) is a leading London-listed renewable energy infrastructure investment company. TRIG seeks to provide shareholders with an attractive long-term, income-based return with a positive correlation to inflation by focusing on strong cash generation across a diversified portfolio of predominantly operating projects. TRIG is invested in a portfolio of over 75 wind, solar and battery storage projects with aggregate net generating capacity of over 1.8GW. TRIG is seeking further suitable investment opportunities which fit its stated Investment Policy. Further details can be found on TRIG’s website at www.trig-ltd.com.